Breast self-exam: Do you know what to look for?

Here’s your easy-to-use guide to checking your cups

Author: Jennifer Reynolds

Published: June 6, 2017 | Updated: October 16, 2023

Did you know as many as 40 percent of cancerous lumps in the breast are found during a self-check? Are you checking yourself every month? The best time to do a self-exam is the week after your period ends.

How to give yourself a breast exam

Begin by standing in front of the mirror with your hands on your hips. Look for any unusual swelling or changes. Then, raise your arms over your head and look for changes. Next, lie down and use one of these techniques to examine your entire breast. (Some women prefer to do this step in the shower, when their skin is more slippery. Either way is fine.)

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